How to make your fragrance last all day

Questions frequently asked

• Why doesn't my perfume last all day?
  

  Three main reasons. Dry skin holds fragrance molecules poorly, so the scent fades within hours. Concentration matters too: an eau de toilette lasts less than an eau de parfum, and far less than an extrait. And your nose adapts — the perfume is still there, you just stop noticing it.

• How can I make my perfume last longer?
  

  Layer textures from the same line: shower gel, then a scented body lotion, then the fragrance. Each layer holds the scent a little longer. Spray your clothes as well — natural fibres hold scent better than skin does. And keep a travel size on you to top up during the day.

• Where should I spray perfume so it lasts?
  

  Spray from about six inches onto pulse points: wrists, inner elbows, behind the ears. Their natural warmth keeps the fragrance diffusing all day. Apply an unscented moisturizer first, so the molecules have something to cling to. Never rub the sprayed areas — it breaks the structure of the scent.

• How should I store perfume so it doesn't fade?
  

  Choose an eau de parfum over an eau de toilette: the higher concentration lasts longer. Then keep the bottle away from light, heat and humidity. Avoid the bathroom — the swings in temperature there break down the top and heart notes over time.

• How do I make my perfume smell stronger?
  

  Go for fragrances built on musk, vanilla, powdery or woody base notes: heavier molecules linger far longer than fresh ones. Spray onto clean, moisturized skin straight after a shower, then refresh with a touch at the collarbone or along the hairline later in the day.